Computer input device with individually positionable and programmable input members

ABSTRACT

A configurable computer input device. A base is operable to generate and detect a radio frequency carrier signal. A plurality independently positionable input members are each operatively positioned in the vicinity of the base and individually operable to modulate the carrier signal responsive to its identity and status.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to computer input devices. In particular,the present invention relates to a computer input device that includesindependently positionable and programmable input members.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional computer input devices rely on tactile mechanisms to conveythe intentions of the user to the host computer. Some common computerinput devices include keyboards, buttons, mice, joysticks, dials, andtrackballs.

Development of computer input devices has stagnated. The last inputdevice to be widely adopted is the mouse, which was invented nearlyforty years ago. Advancements in computer input device technology havefailed to keep up the pace with development in other aspects of computertechnology.

Furthermore, as functionality of applications has increased, theshortcomings of existing computer input devices become more apparent.For example, it is often necessary to adjust an on-screen slider bar toperform functions, such as adjusting sound volume. Operating a sliderwith a mouse-controlled cursor on a computer screen can be difficult andimprecise.

Another problem with existing computer input devices is that once theyare manufactured, the location, quantity, and function of the individualtactile mechanisms are fixed. Traditional computer keyboards are anexample of this problem. Known keyboards do not provide users with theability to reposition individual keys in a way that would be morecomfortable, logical, or effective. Typically, the user is forced tolearn and adapt to the particular layout of an input device to use iteffectively.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a revolutionary new input device. Amongthe advantages of the present invention are that it can include a numberof input members or mechanisms. Along these lines, the present inventioncan include keys, buttons, button pads, key pads, thumb pads, joysticks,sliders, dials, trackpads, jog/shuttle wheels, and/or any other inputmember. The input members may be analog or digital. As a result, thepresent invention can replace cumbersome actuation of screen-based inputwith tactile user operated input members and, as a result, greatlyfacilitate accurate user input to applications.

Additionally, the present invention provides a computer input devicethat permits users to individually locate in desired positions aplurality of input members or mechanisms. Each input member may beindividually programmed with one or more input functions. Among theadvantages of the present invention is that any desired input membersmay be included in the device. The present invention permits a user toselect an optimum mix, based upon type, number, position, orientation orany other parameter, of input members to use for specific tasks.Therefore, the present invention permits a user to create a custom inputdevice with respect to the input members included and their arrangement.

When arranging the input members, a user may select, among other things,the position and orientation of each individual input member relative tothe other input members as well as within the custom input device as awhole. For example, users can arrange the input members to conform totheir unique hand geometry, increasing the comfort of using the inputdevice. Alternately, users may arrange the input members into logicalgroupings according to function.

Significantly, as users, applications, user needs and/or otherparameters change, the present invention can provide the ability toalter the positions of the input members. Also, input members may beadded and/or subtracted from the input device. This further enhances theadaptability of the input device of the present invention.

Either before or after positioning of an input member, one or more inputfunctions may be assigned to the input member. The function(s) may beselected based upon any criteria. Along these lines, function(s) may beassigned to optimize productivity or convenience. Similarly to thepositioning of the input members, the function of the input members maybe changed or reprogrammed.

Thus, the present invention can provide the ability to create an inputdevice customized on a variety of levels. As such, the present inventionprovides a new computer input device with a functionality that is ordersof magnitude beyond existing input devices.

As described herein, the present invention allows each user to specifythe number, type, location, and function of each input mechanism,thereby offering the ability to create a personalized computer inputdevice. The personalized interface may allow the user to place all thecontrols they need, but only the controls they use, and to place them inan arrangement that is logical, comfortable, and efficient for them.Furthermore, the present invention allows the user, at any time, toreconfigure the input device to add or remove features, as well as toadjust the device for other, very different, types of computer inputfunctions, such as word processing or computer aided design (CAD). Agraphical interface allows the input device to be configured to work thesame across multiple software applications, or to perform a differenttask within each application.

The present invention provides a configurable computer input device. Thedevice includes a base operable to generate and detect a radio frequencycarrier signal. At least one independently positionable input member isoperatively positioned in the vicinity of the base and is operable tomodulate the carrier signal responsive to its identity and status. Thedevice may include a plurality of independently positionable inputmember each operatively positioned in the vicinity of the base and eachoperable to modulate the carrier signal responsive to its identity andstatus.

Additionally, the present invention also includes a computer system. Thecomputer system includes a host computer. The computer system alsoincludes an input device including a base operable to generate anddetect a radio frequency carrier signal. The base is operativelyconnected to the host computer. A plurality of independentlypositionable input members are each operatively positioned in thevicinity of the base and individually operable to modulate the carriersignal responsive to its identity and status.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Objects and advantages of the present invention will be more clearlyunderstood from the following specification when considered inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a computerinput device according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 represents a perspective view of another embodiment of a computerinput device according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 represents perspective views of exemplary embodiments of aplurality of input members according to the present invention;

FIG. 4A represents an exploded view of an embodiment of an input memberaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 4B represents a perspective view of the input member shown in FIG.4A in an assembled state;

FIG. 5A represents an exploded view of another embodiment of an inputmember according to the present invention;

FIG. 5B represents a perspective view of the input member shown in FIG.5A in an assembled state;

FIG. 6 represents a diagram that illustrates elements of an embodimentof a system according to the present invention and signal flow among theelements;

FIG. 7 represents an electrical schematic diagram of an embodiment of abase portion of a computer input device according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 represents a cut away view of an embodiment of a base portion ofa computer input device according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 represents an electrical schematic diagram of an RFID tagcircuit;

FIG. 10 represents an electrical schematic diagram of an embodiment ofcircuitry for an input member according to the present invention;

FIG. 11 represents an electrical schematic diagram of an embodiment of adigital input member according to the present invention;

FIG. 12 represents an electrical schematic diagram of an embodiment ofan analog input member according to the present invention;

FIG. 13 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of abase operation protocol for querying individual input members;

FIG. 14 represents flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of amulti-object priority adjustment of a base operation protocol accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 15 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of aprocess for storing and retrieving information within an input member;

FIG. 16 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of aprocess of input member caching;

FIG. 17 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of aprocess for transmission of change in status of an input member;

FIG. 18 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of aprocess for entry into field initialization and timing calibration of aninput member;

FIG. 19 represents a flow diagram that illustrates an embodiment of datapayload delivery from an input member to a host computer; and

FIG. 20 represents an overhead view of another embodiment of a computerinput device according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of an input device according to the present inventionincludes a base. The base is operable to generate and detect atime-varying electromagnetic radio-frequency (RF) wave or carriersignal. At least one independently positionable input member isoperatively positioned in the vicinity of the base and operable tomodulate the carrier signal responsive to the identity and status of theinput member.

An input device according to the present invention employsremotely-powered, passive, radio-frequency communication between thebase and the input members. This type of system is well known andcommonly used for Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems. Adescription of traditional RFID system design and operation may be foundin “microID™ 13.56 MHz RFID System Design Guide” published by MicrochipTechnology, Inc.

As described below in greater detail, RFID tags may be employed in anumber of elements of a device according to the present invention. Theuse and operation of RFID tags are well know in the prior art.Typically, the RFID tags used in the present invention employ a standarddesign of RFID circuits containing an antenna and RFID die and conformto the known ISO 15693 protocol described in the ISO/IEC Final CommitteeDraft 15693, the entire contents of the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference. FIG. 9 illustrates an electronic schematicfor a typical known RFID tag.

The present invention is not limited to use of the 15693 protocol. Anyof the myriad other RFID tag designs and/or protocols may also beemployed. Non-standard or custom communication protocols may also beemployed. Furthermore, carrier frequencies other than 13.56 MHz may alsobe utilized.

Communication from the base to an input member is accomplished bymodulation of the carrier signal. Communication from the input membersto the base is accomplished through electromagnetic coupling with thecarrier signal of the base, commonly referred to as backscattermodulation. Backscatter communication is also described in greaterdetail in the above-referenced publication by Microchip Technology, Inc.Briefly, in backscatter communication, an RF voltage link between thebase and each input member may be comparable to weakly coupledtransformer coils. Backscatter modulation is accomplished by momentarilyshunting the antenna in the input member, inducing a voltage drop in thebase antenna. This voltage drop may be subsequently amplified anddetected by the base. By proper timing of this shunting, an input membermay transmit data to the base.

Each input member is operatively positionable in the vicinity of thebase. The term “operatively positionable” is intended to indicate thatthe input members are positioned at locations where they can modulatethe carrier signal. This may include vertical and/or horizontaldistance, orientation and/or other parameters. The distance between theinput members and the base may depend upon a number of factors. Forexample, the strength of the carrier signal can affect the distancebetween the input members and the base; a stronger carrier signal couldpermit the distance to be greater. Also, whether the input members areinductively powered by the carrier signal or include a power source canaffect the distance. Another factor that can affect the distance is thesensitivity of the receiving electronics in the base. Furthermore, theambient environment in which the base is operating, which may includefactors such as the presence of metal and/or electromagnetic noisesources, may also limit the operable distance of the input members. Aslong as the carrier signal has sufficient strength when it reaches aninput member and the input member can modulate the carrier signal in amanner that is detectable by the base, then the input member may beconsidered to be operatively positioned in the vicinity of the base.

By utilizing backscatter communication, the input members do not requireextra circuitry to generate and transmit a separate RF signal, such as aradio signal generator and a transmission antenna. This represents animprovement over known computer input devices. By relying on backscatterto send information from the input members to the base, the inputmembers do not become intentional radiators of RF energy. Therefore, theinput members do not require shielding to prevent unintentionalelectromagnetic interference or to satisfy Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) regulations. The use of passive RF communicationeliminates the difficulty with providing individual transmitters on eachdevice. Backscatter communication from the input member to the base canalso predictably limit the range of the input members, therebypreventing interference with other devices. Notwithstanding the above,if desired, the input members may each include a transmitter.

The carrier signal not only can serve to permit communication betweenthe base and the input members, but it can also power the input membersby inductive coupling to the base unit. Each input member may includeone or more antennas to intersect the carrier signal generated by thebase. Interaction between the carrier signal and the antenna(s) in theinput member(s) can induce an AC voltage in the antenna(s). This ACvoltage may be rectified to produce a DC voltage that may provide powerto electronics within each input member. Alternatively or additionally,the input members may receive power from other means. Internal orexternal power sources for input members may include, but are notlimited to: batteries, capacitors, and/or wired power. Input members forsome embodiments may also receive power by converting mechanical energy,provided by the user while actuating the member, into electrical energy.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a computer input device 38 accordingto the present invention. The device includes a base 42. The basetypically includes an active area, or communication area 43 in thevicinity of which a variety of input members 40 may be arranged. Thebase may also include an area where input members typically are notarranged. This area may be an inactive area and/or may include elementsother than input members. The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes aninactive region in the portion of the base that does not includecommunication area 43.

The base can have any desired shape and size. In some cases, the basemay be small where, for example, desktop space is limited and/or where alarge number of input members is not necessarily required. In othercases, the base may be large, where, for example, a large number ofinput members is desired and/or greater flexibility for arranging inputmembers is desired.

The base typically includes a surface, such as communication surface 44The communication surface 44 typically provides a surface within thecommunication area 43 onto which input members may be attached orarranged to carry out the wireless communications described above. Thecommunication surface may have any desired shape, size and/or contour.While the communication surface typically is planar, some embodimentsmay include a communication surface that is contoured or is contourable.This could facilitate convenient placement of input members.

The base may be made of any suitable material that permits it tofunction. Typically, the base includes a housing made of molded plastic.This can facilitate removal and repositioning of the input members asdescribed below in greater detail.

According to some embodiments, the base could have the shape of a videogame controller. This would permit placement of game control inputmembers in desired locations. In other embodiments, the base isincorporated into an existing computer input device, such as a keyboard.FIG. 20 illustrates such an embodiment. The embodiment shown in FIG. 20includes a combined communication surface and fixed keyboard 246. Thecommunication surface 248 in this embodiment surrounds the fixedkeyboard. One advantage of such an embodiment is that it combines thekeyboard and a device according to the present invention in a singlehousing, decreasing the amount of desk space necessary for the device.Combining the housing and processors of the two separate devices into asingle device can also allow for lower component and manufacturingcosts. Also, such an embodiment provides the standardization of atypical keyboard with the flexibility and customization capabilities ofthe present invention. Examples of other embodiments include acommunication surface incorporated into a pen-tablet, a wireless tabletPC, the surface of a desk, a monitor housing or a laptop computer. Infact, the base/communication surface could be incorporated practicallyanywhere.

One or more input members are independently operatively positionable inthe vicinity of the base to permit two-way communication between theinput members and the base. In some embodiments, the input members maybe directly attached to the base. According to other embodiments, thebase may include a cover to which the input members are attached. Thecover may cover the communication surface of the base. Alternatively,the cover may cover more or less area of the base. According to oneembodiment, the cover covers the entire communication surface of thebase. The cover may be made of any suitable material. Typically, thecover is made of molded plastic. This can facilitate removablypositioning of the input members on the base, as described in greaterdetail below.

A cover may or may not be secured to the base. If the cover is securedto the base, the base and/or the cover may include one or more elementsoperable to secure the cover. For example, the cover and/or the base mayinclude frictional retaining members. For example, the cover couldextend on the sides of the base and the base and/or the cover couldinclude protrusions that engage the other of the cover and the base. Thebase and/or the cover could include retaining members that could engagethe other of the base and/or the cover and/or protrusions on the otherof the base and/or the cover. Additionally, the cover and/or the basecould include detents that receive the protrusions. The cover would besecurely attached to the base with a friction fit, such that the usermay “snap” it into place. According to another embodiment, the coverand/or the base could include one or more grooves and that engage one ormore protrusions on the other of the base and the cover. The cover couldbe secured to the based by sliding the protrusion(s) in the groove(s).The cover could also be secured to the base with temporary or permanentadhesive. The cover may also be permanently secured to the base.

A cover can permit a user to easily change input configurations withoutrepositioning input members. For example, a user may have differentlayouts for video editing and word processing. Instead of repositioninginput members each time the user switches tasks, the user may simplykeep the input members for video editing on one cover, and input membersfor word processing on another cover. The user would then merely swapone cover for another to reconfigure the device.

Any cover utilized with the present invention permits the base and inputmechanisms to communicate with each other when the cover is in place. Ifthe input members are powered by the carrier signal, the cover alsopermits this to take place. The cover may be made of any suitablematerial and have any suitable thickness that permits the communicationand possible powering to take place. For example, the cover may beconstructed of transparent molded plastic. Using a transparent coverallows a template, described below in greater detail, to be positionedbetween the cover and the base.

The present invention may also include one or more templates thatpermit, for example, input member functions and positions to be labeled.Templates may be employed whether or not the device includes a cover.The template typically is removable from the device.

If the device includes a cover and a template, typically the cover willbe made of a transparent material such that the template may be arrangedbetween the base and the cover. A template could be arranged prior toarranging the cover. Alternatively, a space, such as a slot could existbetween the cover and the base or be formed in the cover or the base topermit a template to be slid between the cover and the base.

Templates can permit a user to customize and modify the appearance ofthe base surface, by allowing different artwork to be displayed throughthe template. Employing a clear cover can permit a template arrangedunderneath the cover to be viewed. This can avoid the need for holes cutin the cover to receive input members.

A template can provide a surface for printing custom text or graphics.For example, a template may mark and record a desirable configuration ofthe location of input members. This may allow a user to recreate aconfiguration of input members by aligning them with the markings on thesurface of the template. The template may also be used to change theappearance of the base by providing a surface for custom graphics,advertisements, or artwork.

A template according to the present invention may be made of anysuitable material. For example, a template could be made of paper,laminated paper, and/or plastic. Alternately, a template may be createdfrom a surface with “electronic ink” that would permit an image on thetemplate to be created or updated electronically. Such an electronic inkis available from E Ink Corporation of Cambridge, Mass. Alternately, thebase, template, and/or cover could include some other electronic displaymeans, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), over the communicationsurface to provide a dynamic labeling and display functionality.

A cover and/or a template may include one or more RFID tags. The tagscan provide a means for communication between the base and the coverand/or template and a means for data storage and retrieval. Placing RFIDtags in and/or on the covers and/or templates can permit the base torecognize a layout of input members on the cover and/or template. Thiscan permit the base to adapt computer input accordingly. For example,many computer game players prefer to use a single control layout schemefor multiple games. Often, game controls are different between differentgames. Using a memory-enabled template can permit a user to easilyspecify a configuration the user wishes to employ. Alternately, a coverthat has an embedded RFID tag could store data about any particularcover and/or template and input members that are attached to them.

RFID tag(s) associated with the cover and/or template can also provide ameans to transfer configuration data from one base to another, simply bymoving the cover or the template to a different base. Additionally, RFIDtag(s) associated with a cover and/or a template can provide a means forsoftware publishers to specify the actions of one or more input membersby including with software materials a preprinted template or cover thatincludes one or more preprogrammed RFID tags. For example, apreprogrammed RFID tag can provide to the base data about how movementof a joystick should be interpreted by the software installed on a hostcomputer.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes an RFID circuit or RFID tag 68in each of the cover and the template. The RFID tags 68 may be affixedto the surface, or embedded within, the template 60 and/or the cover 58.More than one RFID tag 68 may be used for the template 60 and/or thecover 58, to provide extra memory or additional functionality.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a cover 58 attached to the base42 by sliding it into cover guides 62 provided on the edges of the base42. FIG. 2 shows the cover 58 partially attached to the base 42. In thisembodiment, when the cover is fully attached it completely covers thecommunication surface 44. Typically, the cover 58 entirely overlaps thecommunication surface 44 of the base 42 and detentes into a closedposition. The cover 58, with any attached input mechanisms 40, may becompletely removed from the base 42. By using different covers 58, auser may switch among multiple sets of input members 40. The cover 58can permit a user to maintain two or more distinct configurations ofinput members 40, and to switch between the two configurations byswitching covers 58 on the base 42. This feature prevents a user frombeing forced to reposition each input member 40 once the user hascreated a desirable configuration.

In other embodiments, the input members are not attached to either thebase or a cover. In some cases, an input member may be placed on thebase or a cover but not attached. Alternatively, an input member couldbe arranged elsewhere in the vicinity of the communication surface. Aninput member could be hand held and simply waved in the vicinity of thebase to initiate communication. Attachment of input members to the baseor a cover is discussed below in greater detail with respect to theinput members.

The base may also include a processor operable to control thefunctioning of the base. Among other functions, the processor cancoordinate the generation of the carrier signal through the baseantenna. The processor may also coordinate the reception and analysis ofthe modulated carrier signal from input members, and communication witha host computer or other device. Arrangement and operation of the baseantenna as well as its functioning with the input device is discussedbelow in greater detail. The base may include more than one processor tocarry out one or more of the functions.

The base can include elements for initiating various functions, such asassigning one or more functions to actuation of an input member andactivating a configuration program on a host computer or other device.For example, the embodiment of the base 42 shown in FIG. 1 includes agroup of base buttons 53 to provide a means for a user to selecting theoperational mode of the input device 38. These buttons include aconfiguration button 54 that can permit a user to launch a configurationprogram on a host computer 64, shown in FIG. 6. A record button 56 canpermit a user to enter a record mode that records events generated byother traditional devices attached to the host computer 64, such askeypresses and mouse events. The base may include one or more elementsfor illuminating elements for initiating various functions. Along theselines, the base could include one or more light emitting diodes. Theillumination state of the base LEDs (on or off) could be employed tosignal the status of the recording and configuration mode or otherfunctions of the input device.

To communicate with a host computer or other device, the base mayinclude one or more communication elements. The communication elementscould include one or more wired or wireless connections. Along theselines, the base could include a serial, parallel, universal serial bus(USB), Apple desktop bus (ADB), IEEE 13394 (fire wire), PC AT or PC XTkeyboard or other connector. The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes aUSB interface for communication between the base 42 and a host computer.A USB cable 52 connects the base and the host computer. Wirelesscommunication elements could include elements to generate radio and/orinfrared signals, such as IR ports or antennas for Bluetooth or IEEE802.11.

A connection could rely on any suitable communication protocol. Forexample, where the connection includes a USB connection, the presentinvention could rely on the USB 1.1 protocol as defined by USBImplementers Forum, Inc. of Portland Oreg. However, one of ordinaryskill in the art could modify the present invention without undueexperimentation to use any of a multitude of standard or non-standardcommunication protocols, both wired and wireless, to providecommunication between the base and a host computer or other device. Asmall sample of other possible protocols include the PC AT or PC XTkeyboard standard, Apple Desktop Bus standard, parallel port standards,serial port standards, IEEE 1394, Bluetooth, and 802.11.

FIG. 8 represents a cut away view of an embodiment of a base portion ofbase 42. In FIG. 8, the top housing layer of the base has been removedto show the positioning of the electronic assemblies in the presentembodiment. The electronics for the base may be arranged on a baseprinted circuit board (PCB) 134 shown in FIG. 8. A USB cable 52 and abase antenna 114 may also be attached to the base PCB 134.

The base includes at least one antenna operable to generate the carriersignal as well as to receive the modulated signal from the inputmember(s). According to one embodiment of the present invention, asingle loop antenna or magnetic dipole antenna may be used for thispurpose. Multiple antennas may also be used for some embodiments. Manyantenna designs known in the art are suitable for generating carrierwaves for and communicating within RF communication systems. RFID systemantenna design is described in greater detail in the above-referencedpublication by Microchip Technology, Inc.

The base may also include two overlapping antennas to cover the entiresurface area of the base. By using multiple antennas, the base may beable to cover more area, while minimizing the distance from an antennatrace in the base to the antennas in the input members. With twoantennas, the base may switch between the antennas to determine thestatus of the input mechanisms positioned within the vicinity of thebase. In some cases, the functions of generating the carrier signal andreceiving the modulated signal from the may be carried out by separateantennas.

FIG. 8 illustrates the antenna arrangement in the embodiment of the baseshown in FIG. 1. The base antenna 114 shown in FIG. 8 includes a singleloop. The loop follows the perimeter of the communication surface 44shown in FIG. 1. Other antenna arrangements as well as different numbersof antennas may be employed. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 20, one or more antennas could be arranged about the perimeter ofthe communication surface provided in the keyboard housing.

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates major electronic components of the baseaccording to one embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment ofthe base is controlled with a base microcontroller 100. One example of abase microcontroller that may be employed according to the presentinvention is the TUSB3210 microcontroller available from TexasInstruments, Inc. The base microcontroller 100 may communicate with thehost computer 64 through USB cable 52 using the known USB 1.1 protocolreferred to herein. The USB protocol provides for communicating humaninput device (HID) interactions with a host computer. Typically, thebase 42 may receives all necessary power from the host computer throughthe USB cable 52. However, the base may also include a power supply,particularly where a connection other than a USB connection is employed.

The base microcontroller 100 may communicate with a base memory 112. Anysuitable memory may be employed. One example of suitable memory includesstandard I²C EEPROM. The base memory may store program code and systemvariables when the base is unpowered. Other information that the basememory 112 may store can include system configuration, user settings,and/or any other desired data.

The base microcontroller 100 may also monitor the status of the basebuttons 53 to determine if they are being pressed. The basemicrocontroller 100 may switch the status of the base LEDs 66 inresponse to changes in the base mode initiated by pressing the basebuttons 53.

The base typically generates an electromagnetic carrier signal. Thecarrier signal typically is a radio frequency carrier signal thatcommunicates with the input members and may power the input members. Asdescribed above, the base includes at least one base antenna 114 totransmit the carrier signal and to receive the backscatter signalproduced by the input members. A transmitter 116 generates the carriersignal for the base antenna 114 to transmit. A receiver 118 filters andamplifies the backscatter signal received by the base antenna 114.

By transmitting and receiving identification data, the base 42 maydetermine the status of each input member 40 in the vicinity of thebase. The microcontroller 100 may receive data from each input member 40and generate appropriate input for a host computer 64.

FIG. 7 represents an electrical schematic of an embodiment of the baseantenna 114, transmitter 116, and receiver 118. The base microcontroller100 may communicate with the input members 40 by sending a signal (dataout) to the transmitter 116 to modulate the carrier signal. Thetransmitter 116 may employ a 13.56 MHz oscillator, or oscillator 120that drives a power transistor 122. Data may be sent over digital outputlines from the base microcontroller 100 to select the voltage modulationlevel. The transmitter in the preferred embodiment may broadcast, forexample, at 100% voltage, 90% voltage (10% modulation), or 0% voltage(100% modulation). By modulating the output voltage levels, the base 42may transmit data to the input members 40. Details regardingcommunication of this type may be found in the ISO 15693 specification.A passive filter 124 may be used after the driver to smooth the waveformand reduce off-frequency energy.

According to one embodiment, the base employs a 10% modulation scheme tocommunicate with key input members and uses a 100% modulation scheme tocommunicate with other types of input members. The base may employ twoseparate modulation schemes for base-to-input member communication. Thiscan help limit unintended “cross talk” in the communication channel.

The output of the transmitter 116 may be transmitted to the base antenna114, as shown in FIG. 7. The base antenna 114 may use a single-turn loopantenna (magnetic dipole), or antenna loop 115 or any other antennasuitable for RF communication. The base antenna 114 may be tuned toresonate at a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz. Alternative frequenciesmay be employed in addition or in place of the one used for thisembodiment. The antenna loop 115 of base antenna 114 may be constructedfrom a 50-ohm coaxial cable or any other suitable antenna component. Forthe embodiment shown in FIG. 7, only one end of the coaxial cable shieldmay be connected to ground to allow transmission of the carrier signal,although other shielding configurations are possible.

Any backscatter signals received by the base antenna 114 may be filteredand amplified by the receiver 118. A detector 126 may transmit anymodulation of the carrier signal to an active low pass filter 128.According to one embodiment the filter provides over approximately 30 dBof gain at about 430 kHz while attenuating the 13.56 MHz carrier signal.The present invention may also include an active band pass filter 130centered at about 430 kHz. The active band pass filter 130 can alsoprovide additional gain. A threshold detector 132 may convert the signalto digital levels to send to the base microcontroller 100.

The base communicates with input members operatively arranged in thevicinity of the base. The input members may or may not be attached tothe base and/or a cover arranged on at least a portion of the base. Eachinput member is independently positionable with respect to the base andmay or may not be respositionable. Each input member may independentlycommunicate with the base.

The input members may be analog and/or digital input members. Examplesof input members that may be employed with the present invention includekeys, buttons, button pads, key pads, thumb pads, joysticks, sliders,dials, trackpads, track balls, touch pads and/or jog/shuttle wheels, forexample. An input member could actually include more than one inputmember. Along these lines, an input member could include a slide bankthat includes a plurality of sliders. In such a compound input member,the input member as a whole could communicate with the base.Alternatively, each input member that makes up the compound input membercould individually communicate with the base.

FIG. 3 represents a perspective view of examples of input members 40that may be included in the present invention. The input members 40include a key 50, a dial 46, a joystick 48, a slide bank 72, ajog-shuttle wheel 74, a fader 76, and a button array 78. These examplesof input members are merely representational. A multitude of designs andmechanisms are possible. Other interface elements may also beincorporated with the present invention, alone or in combination. Theseother interface elements could include LCD displays, touch pads, straingauge pointing devices, trackballs, and acoustic speakers, for example.

If the input members are attached to the base or to a cover arrangedover at least a portion of the base, the input members may or may not berelatively easily removable and repositionable. If not easily removableand repositionable, the input members could be secured with permanentadhesive. While such an adhesive may degrade over time or be removablewith a solvent or other means, removing input members secured with suchadhesive would not be easy.

Typically, input members attached to the base or to one or more covermembers arranged over at least a portion of the base would be easilyremovable and repositionable. Any suitable means may be used to securethe input members. Typically, the present invention employs a reusableadhesive to removably attach input members to the base or base cover.The reusable adhesive is a soft polyurethane composition that employs anon-permanent, mechanical, surface adhesion for operation. One exampleof such an adhesive is double-sided Magstick sheet adhesive availablefrom IdeaMax Corp of Costa Mesa, Calif.

The reusable adhesive may be permanently secured to the input membersutilizing any suitable means. For example, the reusable adhesive couldbe secured with a permanent adhesive to the input members. Mechanical orother means could also be utilized. With the reusable adhesive securedto an input member, the input member may be repeatedly attached to,repositioned on, and removed from the base and/or the base cover 58.

When a user places an input member onto a suitable surface of the baseor base cover, the exposed (bottom) side of the reusable adhesive cannon-permanently adhere to the surface, thereby affixing the input memberin place. The reusable adhesive can provide a temporary bond that issecure enough for typical user input operations, but does not create astrong shear bond. The relatively weak shear bond created between thereusable adhesive and the base or base cover can permit a user to removean input member by gently twisting and pulling up on the input member. Auser may then reposition the input member in a new location or remove itfrom the base. The reusable adhesive has the added property that it maybe cleansed with water and/or a mild soap or detergent. Cleaning anddrying the reusable adhesive restores the adhesive properties of theadhesive so that is can again provide a convenient and reusableattachment means.

Other means could also be employed to removably attach input members tothe base or base cover. Along these lines, a relatively poor adhesive,along the lines of the adhesive used in POST-IT notes could be employed.Even a hook and loop closure, such as VELCRO could be utilized. Alongthese lines, one of the hook and loop could be arranged on the base orbase cover and the other of the hook and loop could be arranged on theinput members. Mechanical means on the base, base cover, and/or inputmembers could also be employed to secure the input members to the baseor base cover.

In some embodiments, at least one or all of the input members may bepermanently attached to the base or base cover. In such embodiments,permanent adhesive could be employed to secure the input members to thebase or base cover. This could help to create a device that a user wouldnot worry about having an arrangement of input members altered.

Typically, each input member is independently positionable anywhere onthe base or base cover. In other words, each input member may bearranged in an infinite number of locations on the base or base cover.However, for some embodiments, the input members may be arranged only indesignated locations. Such embodiments could include a grid of positionswhere input members could potentially be arranged. Alternatively, thepositions could be arranged in other configurations.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention with the aplurality of input members 40 arranged on the base. The input membersinclude a plurality of individual keys 50, a joystick 48 and a dial 46.FIG. 2 illustrates the same input members in a similar arrangementarranged on a base cover 58.

Internally and operatively, the input members may vary. For example,digital input members, which typically have functions other than singleswitches, may employ microprocessors connected to a coil and one or moreelectromechanical elements. Examples of digital input members includerotary encoder dials and digital joysticks. The electromechanicalelement outputs are connected to digital input pins of themicroprocessor. On the other hand, analog input mechanisms, may includea microprocessor that employs an analog-to-digital converter and may beconnected to a coil and one or more analog input members. Examples ofanalog input members include potentiometers and variable resistancesliders. Supporting separate electronic circuit designs for differenttypes of input members can provide a more flexible input device. Thecombined design allows simple “make or break” controls to use industrystandard RFID components, thereby lowering the complexity and cost ofthe input mechanism, while still allowing more complicated controls tobe used. The protocol utilized by the base can provide for communicationwith multiple input mechanism types, and can allow the base toprioritize the communications with them. Each input member may containor be assigned an identifier that uniquely identifies it to a particularbase.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B illustrate the general mechanical constructionof a number of different input members. Each of these input membersincludes one or more electromechanical actuators connected to anelectrical circuit contained within a housing. Other input members maybe constructed in a similar manner.

In particular, FIG. 4A shows an exploded view of an embodiment of amechanical assembly for a key. The key includes a key cap 80 mated to amechanical key switch, or key switch 82. Any suitable key switch couldbe employed. One specific example of a key switch is an ML series keyswitch available from The Cherry Corporation, Waukegan, Ill. 60087.

The key switch 82 may be electrically connected to a printed circuitboard, or key PCB 84. The key PCB 84 may include electronics operable tocommunicate with the base 42. The key switch 82 combined with theelectronics on the key PCB 84 is included in the circuit shown in FIG.10. Any suitable printed circuit board could be utilized.

The key cap 80, the key switch 82, and the key PCB 84 may be assembledin a housing or key base 86. A reusable adhesive, or adhesive 88, may beapplied to the bottom of the key base 86. The reusable adhesive oradhesive may be secured to the key base 86 bottom, as shown in FIGS. 4Aand 4B. FIG. 4B shows the assembled key 50.

FIG. 10 shows the electrical schematic for the embodiment of the key 50shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, a keyswitch 82 connects a radio frequency identification integrated circuit,or RFID IC 136 to a coil antenna, or key antenna 138. The key antenna138 receives the RF carrier signal generated by the base. When theswitch 82 is closed, typically by pressing by a user, the RFID IC 136may be connected to the key antenna 138, and can receive power from andcommunicate with the base 42.

The RFID IC 136 used in the input members typically conforms to the ISO15693 standard. Of course, another protocol could be utilized if it isfunctional. Each RFID IC 136 typically includes a unique 64-bitidentification number and a 416 bit rewritable EEPROM memory.Anticollision algorithms, described below in greater detail, within eachRFID IC 136, and separate key antennas 138 for each key 50 can allowmultiple keys to be active simultaneously and to communicate with thebase using the same carrier signal.

The key antenna 138 may employ a tuned design. Known designs can includea discrete capacitor in the resonant circuit to tune the circuitresonance frequency. The addition of a tuning capacitor may increaseproduction complexity and cost for an input member. By employing a tunedantenna design, the present embodiment may eliminate the requirement fora tuning capacitor. The antenna size, number of coil turns, and turnspacing may be adjusted to provide a circuit with a closed key switch 82and an RFID IC 136 that resonates naturally near the carrier signalfrequency of 13.56 MHz. The resonant frequency of an RF circuit isrelated to its inductance and capacitance by the relationship:$F \propto \frac{1}{\sqrt{LC}}$The antenna design in the present embodiment was selected from a testmatrix of antenna designs that explored various antenna parameters, suchas antenna size, number of coil turns, and turn spacing. Measuring theperformance of each antenna design in the test matrix yielded an inputmember antenna having an inductance that matches the capacitance of theclosed circuit for the desired resonance frequency. The coil design wasselected such that the inductance of the coil and circuit, in relationto the distributed capacitance of the circuit and the capacitance withinthe RFID chip, produces a naturally resonant circuit. This naturallyresonant circuit does not require the addition of a discrete capacitorelement to resonate at the desired operating frequency. Of course, theinput members may include extra tuning capacitors if they are requiredor desired for a particular embodiment.

FIG. 5A represents an exploded view of the mechanical assembly foranother embodiment of an input member according to the presentinvention. The input member shown in FIG. 5A is a dial 46. A dial cap 90may be mated to a dial rotary encoder, or rotary encoder 94, through anopening in a dial housing top 92. Any rotary encoder may be utilized.One example of a rotary encoder that may be employed with the presentinvention is model #290UAA5F201B2 available from CTS corporation ofElkhant, Ind. The rotary encoder 94 may be electrically connected to aprinted circuit board or dial PCB 96. The dial PCB 96 may includeelectronics operable to communicate with the base 42. The rotary encoder94 combined with the electronics on the dial PCB 96 are included in thecircuit shown in FIG. 11. Any suitable printed circuit board could beutilized in the dial PCB. According to one embodiment, the dial PCB 96made from a two-layer FR4 rigid-board material, but as with the key PCB84, any suitable material may be used.

The entire assembly may be mounted to a dial housing base 98, as shownin FIG. 5B. A reusable adhesive or adhesive 99 may be applied to thebottom of the dial base 98. The reusable adhesive or adhesive may besecured to the dial base 98 bottom, as shown in FIG. 5B. FIG. 5B showsthe assembled dial 46. Although it has a different shape to cover thelarger dial housing base 98, the adhesive 99 may be constructed of thesame material as the key adhesive 88.

Input members, such as the dial shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, that providemore complex input means than the single switch of the key may notemploy the standard RFID IC. Instead, these input mechanisms may employlow-power microprocessors connected to an RF circuit. FIG. 11 shows anembodiment of an electrical schematic for the electronic circuit thatmay be employed with a dial. When the dial is placed in the vicinity ofthe base, a coil antenna, or dial antenna 142 receives the RF carriersignal generated by the base. A full-wave bridge rectifier circuit 144may condition the RF signal received by the dial antenna 142 to providepower for a dial microprocessor 140. Any suitable microprocessor may beutilized. According to one embodiment, the dial microprocessor is anMSP430F112 series available from Texas Instruments, of Dallas, Tex. Ahalf-wave rectifier circuit combined with an R/C circuit may constitutean input circuit 146 that may be connected to an input pin of the dialmicroprocessor 140.

The input circuit 146 can permit the microprocessor to detect 100%modulation of the RF carrier signal generated by the base. The base mayuse 10% modulation of the carrier signal to transmit data to key-switchtype input members. The base may use 100% modulation of the carriersignal to transmit data to other types of input members. This design canpermit the input circuit 146 to only transmit to the dial microprocessor140 only data intended for non-key-switch type input members.

The dial microprocessor 140 may transmit data back to the base usingbackscatter modulation. The dial microprocessor 140 can momentarilyshunt the dial antenna 142 with a pair of MOSFETS 148. This shuntinginduces a voltage drop in the coupled base antenna 114 that is detectedby the base. Communication frames composed of timed shunting cycles,which may be near 430 kHz, can provide a data transfer means from thedial 46 to the base.

The dial microprocessor 140 may monitor the status of the rotary encoder94, a profile of which is shown in FIG. 5A. When a user turns the dialcap 90 mated to the rotary encoder 94, the dial microprocessor 140 maydetect and communicate the change in position to the base. The dialmicroprocessor 140 may be connected to external memory 150, such as I²CEEPROM. The memory 150 can store code and data when the dial 46 or anyother input member that includes memory is not powered, such as when thedial or other input member is removed from the communication surface.Other uses for the input member memory are described below.

FIG. 12 represents a schematic of an embodiment of an electrical circuitfor a slide bank input member, such as the slide bank 72 shown in FIG.3. The slide bank 72 may include a pair of slide potentiometers 154 aselectromechanical input elements. Any slide potentiometer may be used.According to one specific example, the slide potentiometers 154 aremodel #448VCX103BDN available from CTS Corporation of Elkhart, Ind.Unlike the digital rotary encoder 94 used by the dial 46, manipulatingthe slide potentiometers 154 can produce a variable resistance thattypically needs to be converted to a digital signal. The slide bank 72may include a slider microprocessor 152 that can include ananalog-to-digital converter to convert the variable resistance in theslide potentiometers 154 to a corresponding 12-bit number. Anymicroprocessor may be utilized. One particular example of a slidermicroprocessor is MSP430F113 series available from Texas Instruments ofDallas, Tex. The power, rectification, communication, and memorycomponents of the slide bank may all operate in the same manner assimilar circuits in the dial 76 discussed above. The slide bank 72demonstrates the additional capability of analog-to-digital conversionmeans, and the addition of a second electromechanical element.

As described above, an input member may include memory. By includingmemory in the input members, the input members can store and transmitinformation in addition to a status identifier. Typically, with knowndevices that employ RFID technology, data in the RFID object is usedonly to distinguish the mechanism that has been activated. Input membersaccording to the present invention may store information beyond simplythe identification data. For example, the input members may storeinformation about their individual capabilities. This information may betransmitted to and used by the base allowing the base to learn and adaptto new input members. Input members according to the present inventionmay also store information that may be transmitted when they areactivated.

The input members may also store other, more complex types ofinformation. Examples of such can include strings of characters, macrosequences, or computer programs delivered to the base. This can allowthe input members to operate as information containers, and to hold dataindependent from any particular base/host configuration.

Along these lines, the input members may deliver data payloads to a hostcomputer through the base. This can provide a novel means of deliveringnew software functionality. For example, it is possible for a softwarevendor to provide users with new software functions by providing aninput member that contains the new capability. To add this capability, auser could place the input member in operable proximity to the base. Thedata payload would then be transferred to the host computer. The userwould then be able to use the input member in conjunction with the newsoftware function, providing a fast, convenient, and novel way toimprove computer function. Other examples of data that may be stored inthe input member memory include, but are not limited to, executablecode, scripts, application plug-ins, user identity data (such asbusiness card information), passwords, electronic images, and/oradvertising information.

Rather than always relying on the base to interpret the meaning ofactuation of an input member, an input member according to the presentinvention may include information that the input member should deliverwhen actuated. For example, an input member may have the ability to notonly indicate that it has been actuated, but it may also transmit to thebase an appropriate key scan code that may be sent to a host computer.With this improvement, the function of an input member may be storedwithin the input member itself. A user could program an input member onone base, then transfer it to, and use it on, another base without anyextra programming steps. Therefore, it is not necessary that the basealready know about the input member.

Input members of the present invention may include derivatives of thefour circuits shown in FIGS. 9-12. Of course, those of ordinary skill inthe art may employ other circuits or alterations of the circuits shownin the input members. The circuits shown and described herein are onlyrepresentational of the many possible input members and circuits. Forexample, each input member can employ more than one antenna. Forexample, each input member may employ a single antenna for powerreception, base-to-input member communication, and input member-to-basecommunication. Although separate antennas could be used, it is typicallydesirable for space savings, design simplicity, reduced cost, amongother reasons to use one antenna. Other input members could includeother features, for example, digital-to-analog conversion, displaymeans, such as moveable LCDs, touch pads, trackballs, pointing devices,and/or audio speakers.

While wireless communication that is utilized according to the presentinvention may be known, the communication of information between thebase and the input members and the communication between the base andmultiple input members is not known. Additionally, the present inventiontypically provides communication from the input members to the base andvice versa, rather than just one-way communication from an inputmechanism to a receiving unit. Two-way communication can permit storageand retrieval of data in an input member. Furthermore, two-waycommunication may provide other benefits including: dynamic addressingof input members, input members that only transmit data when requestedby the base, and multiple communication protocols support by a singlebase.

Communication back and forth between the input members and the base maytake place according to any number of different protocols. For example,the base and the input members may communicate constantly.Alternatively, the base and the input members may only communicate whena change in the status of the input member has taken place. In somecases, an input member many communicate with the base only upon afterinterrogation by the base.

According to one embodiment, the present invention includes a novelcommunication protocol such that input members may elect to seekcommunication with the base only when they have changed status. This cansignificantly reduce the amount of data communication traffic the basemust support. Instead of merely polling each device to determine itsstatus, the input members can keep track of their own state, and onlyreport changes in that state to the base. Essentially, this process canshift much of the burden of monitoring user input from the base to theindividual input members.

For example, a dial-input mechanism may contain an internal counter thatis representational of the dial position. If the user does not move thedial, this counter typically would not change, and the dial would notreply to a request from the base to report any status changes. Once theuser moves the dial, the internal logic may recognize the change, andtransmits this information to the base after an appropriate request hasbeen made.

The present invention employs a multiple object, multiple-protocolanticollision algorithm to allow a variety of input member types tocommunicate efficiently with the base. Although known devices may teacha single fixed keyboard that may operate with RFID readers, no provisionis made to operate with multiple separate input members simultaneously.The separate protocols according to the present invention used tocommunicate with each type of input member allow adaptation to a varietyof user input needs. For example, for applications where input memberresponse time is important, such as games that require quick keyactivation speeds, the present invention is capable of servicing keypresses with a higher priority than other, less time-critical inputmechanisms. The ability to manage different protocols and servicedifferent input mechanism types separately is a dramatic improvementover the prior art.

The present invention can also provide dynamic identification storage.Along these lines, the present invention can provide the capability toindividually address each input member separately. Known RFID inputdevices only provide for a single interaction, because only one inputmember is considered. On the other hand, according to the presentinvention, the base may assign dynamically a unique identificationnumber to an input member as the input member is introduced to thefield. This unique identification (ID) assignment can allow the base toadapt to the introduction of new input members to the input device. Itcan also allow multiple copies of an input member, such as a dial, to beindividually interrogated by the base without the need to provide anidentification number for each input member at the time of manufacture.By dynamically allocating ID for certain input members, the presentinvention provides a more flexible device as compared to known inputdevices. Of course, the present invention may work with both dynamic andfixed unique IDs, according to the needs of the particular embodiment.

The base may detect the status and/or change in status of the inputmembers. The base then typically converts signals received from theinput members into standard computer input signals, which it may thentransmit to a host computer. The conversion could take place using, forexample, the USB HID protocol for keyboards, mice, and other humaninterface device standards. For example, it is possible with the presentinvention to either send the turning of a dial as a dial turn under theHID dial standard, as a key press, or as a custom function call with theamount a dial turned passed as a parameter. Alternatively, the base maytransmit the signal in an unaltered state or translated into a formother than standard computer input signals. In this case, the hostcomputer would translate the signal received from the base into anotherform.

As stated above, the present invention may communicate with multipleinput members that may also be of different types. According to oneembodiment, the base may scan input members that are keys separatelyfrom other types of input members. There are a number reasons why thismethod of interacting with multiple input members is desirable. Forexample, keys may be smaller and typically more numerous than the othertypes of input members. Keys are often used for input to applicationswhere a fast response time is important, such as computer games.Additionally, keys may use a protocol (ISO 15693) that allows the statusof a group of them to be scanned in a single communication frame usinganticollision protocol of the invention, instead of being polledindividually. Input members that do not use a key circuit, such as thatshown in FIG. 10, typically are not as response time critical.

One embodiment of the present invention may employ a slowercommunication baud rate for some input members, such as a slider bankand a dial. According to this embodiment, such members may be polledindividually. By using multiple communication protocols for separateinput members, the base may optimize communication for performance andflexibility.

FIG. 13 represents a flow chart that illustrates a simplified example ofan embodiment of an operational protocol according to the presentinvention. According to this embodiment, the base may interact with somekeys and some dials that are operatively arranged in the vicinity of thebase. The base may initiate a scan cycle by scanning for keys 156. Ifany keys are detected in the pressed state 158, the base may process theidentity 160 of the pressed keys and determine corresponding inputfunctions that may be sent to a host computer. Once the key processingis complete, or if no keys are pressed, the base may scan each dial 162to determine its current rotation 164. If the base identifies any dialsthat have changed from their previous rotation value, the base mayprocess the new dial rotation 166 and determine corresponding inputfunctions to be sent to a host computer. Once the dial processing iscomplete, or if no dials have changed rotation value, the base may sendany new key and dial input reports to a host computer 168. The base maythen return to start the cycle again. An advantage offered by thisalgorithm is that the base can take advantage of and accommodatedifferent types of input members in the same communication environment.This simplified example may, of course, be expanded to include anynumber of input member types that may be processed separately by thebase.

FIG. 14 represents a flowchart that illustrates another embodiment of anoperational protocol according to the present invention. This flowchartillustrates another advantage of being able to communicate with multipletypes of input members. The flow chart illustrates a similar scanningprocess as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 13 when scanning a similarassortment of keys and dials. However, in the embodiment shown in FIG.14, the base places a priority on user input from the keys. When thebase scans 170 and detects any keys in the pressed state 172, itprocesses the identity 174 of the pressed keys and determines thecorresponding input functions to be sent to the host computer. However,in the mode of operation illustrated in FIG. 14, the base will skipscanning for the dials 178 and immediately send the key input to thehost computer 176. Only when no keys are depressed will the base scanthe dial rotation 178, check for any rotation value changes 180, andprocess dial input reports 182. Of course, it is possible to add timeoutroutines to this algorithm to make sure that the dials will be processedeven if a key is held in the pressed state for an extended period oftime. A feature of this embodiment is that it can selectively processand prioritize input data from multiple types of input members withinthe same environment. This capability can provide other optimization andscheduling capabilities between and among input members.

FIG. 15 represents a flow diagram that illustrates another embodiment ofan operational protocol according to the present invention. Thisembodiment illustrates differences between the present invention andsome known input devices, particularly known input devices that rely ona base unit microprocessor to identify and interpret their actuationstatus of individual input mechanisms and to generate a correspondinginput code for a host computer. For example, in a traditional keyboard,each key is identified by the keyboard microprocessor to represent a keyscan code that is sent to a host computer. The key module itself onlyprovides a switch; the key scan codes are located in the keyboardmicroprocessor. Even known programmable keyboards store updated scancode information in the microprocessor and/or host computer.

On the other hand, the present invention provides a novel method ofstoring input to be sent to a host computer within the input memberitself. For example, in one mode of operation of the present invention,a key may store an actual key scan code, or sequence of codes, that itrepresents in addition to its identification data. In the mode ofoperation shown in FIG. 15, the base may interact only with a group ofkeys in the vicinity of the base. The base may continue to scan for keysin the pressed state 184 until one or more key presses are detected 186.Once a key is found in the depressed state, the key may be identified byits unique identification means 188. The base may then retrieve the scancode 190, or sequence of codes, from the key memory within the RFID IC136. The base may then forward the retrieved scan code(s) to the hostcomputer 192.

This simple example demonstrates the improvement of storing input datawithin an input member itself. Of course, other input members besideskeys could use this technique to provide input information to the base.Although not shown in FIG. 15, the base also has the ability to changeor update the input data stored in the input members. Furthermore, bystoring this information in the input member, the base does not need toknow about a particular input member prior to their mutual introduction.An input member could be assigned on one base, then moved to anotherbase and operate without any further programming. Alternately, inputmembers according to the present invention may be preprogrammed anddelivered to users separately from the base, allowing their immediateuse without requiring additional setup or programming. Softwaremanufacturers may develop sets of input members that function “out ofthe box” with existing bases. The input members according to the presentinvention can deliver their input data to the base directly.

Another advantage of the present invention is input data caching. FIG.16 represents a flowchart that illustrates another embodiment of anoperational protocol according to the present invention that includesinput data caching. Input data caching can allow the present inventionto combine the benefits of input data retrieval from the individualinput members, shown in FIG. 15, with the increased response time of thedirect scan shown in FIG. 14.

The embodiment of the process shown in FIG. 16 includes a simplifiedoperational mode where the base may only interact with a group of keysin the vicinity of the base. The base may continue to scan for keys inthe pressed state 194 until one or more key presses are detected 196.Once a key is found in the pressed state the base identifies it 198. Thebase may then check an internal memory (or cache) to determine if theparticular key has been previously identified 200. If the base (sincebeing powered on, for example), has not communicated with the key beforethis point, the base may then retrieve the scan code(s) from the keymemory 202. The base may then update its internal memory (cache) withthe key identity and its corresponding key scan code(s) 204. The basemay then send the input data 206 from the key to the host computer. Thenext time the base encounters the same key in the pressed state, it canquery its own memory (cache) 208 instead of retrieving the same scancode from the key memory again.

An advantage to the input data caching is that the query caching istypically much faster than retrieving data from the key. By caching theinput data from input members, the base can maintain the flexible andpowerful capability of input member data delivery, and maintain thequicker response times of keeping the data in local memory. The exampledescribed above could, of course, be applied to caching the input datafor any input member. Furthermore, the base and/or host computer couldstore the cached data in static memory, so that the cached data wouldnot need to updated even if the base was turned off.

FIG. 17 represents a flowchart that illustrates an embodiment of anoperational mode of the present invention wherein input members onlytransmit data to the base when there has been a change in their status.Instead of requiring the base to poll each input member, the inputmembers may monitor themselves, and only send data to the base whentheir state has changed. This process can reduce the data traffic acrossthe communication surface and can increase response time of the inputdevices.

The flowchart shown in FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of aself-monitoring process for a dial type input member. In thisembodiment, a dial may maintain a counter value that is representationalof its rotational state. This counter value may be synchronized with thebase 210, so that the base is aware of the initial dial rotationalstate. Once the rotational state is synchronized, the dial may monitorthe rotational state of the dial by acquiring the current counter value212 and comparing it with a previous known counter value 214. The dialmay continue to monitor the counter value until a difference isdetected, signaling a change in the rotational state. If the dialdetects a change, it may wait for the base to transmit a request forstatus changes 216. The dial may then transmit its new rotational stateto the base 218. In this embodiment, the base may generate status changerequests periodically. As shown in the flowchart, according to thisembodiment, unless the dial detects a change in its rotational state, itmay ignore these status change requests from the base. By allowingindividual input members to monitor user input, the present inventioncan reduce the processing complexity of the base.

Furthermore, unnecessary and/or redundant communication between the baseand the individual input members may be reduced dramatically; only “new”information about the input member status may be sent from each inputmember to the base. Of course, the process described in FIG. 17 mayapply to any input member, not just a dial.

FIG. 18 represents a flowchart that illustrates another embodiment of anoperational mode according to the present invention. This embodimentincludes a clock synchronization algorithm that allows use of inputmembers that include processors such as the MSP430 series to calibratetheir internal clocks so that they may communicate with the base at theappropriate modulation frequency. This embodiment can avoids the need touse more expensive oscillators, such as crystals, in circuits fornon-key input members. This embodiment may also allow the input membersto adjust their internal clocks in response to deviations that mayresult from, among other things, manufacturing variability, changes inoperating temperature, and/or antenna voltage differences.

As shown in FIG. 18, a user may place an input member into thecommunication area of the base 220. For input members that receive powerfrom the base carrier signal, entering the field may create a transitionfrom an unpowered state when the input member is arranged outside thefield to a powered state when the input member is arranged inside thefield. During this transition, the input member may wait until it isfully powered 222. Once powered, the input member may begin performinginitialization tasks.

One initialization task shown in the flowchart is to calibrate theinternal clock in the input member microprocessor to tune thecommunication modulation frequencies for optimal performance. Accordingto one embodiment, clock calibration can occur in two steps. First, theinput member may utilized an internal counter to measure the intervalbetween two or more timing signals transmitted at known intervals by thebase 226. The internal counter may be driven by the internal clock beingcalibrated. Discrepancies between the known and measured interval timingmay be utilized to calibrate the internal clock through provided clockadjustment registers 224. Of course, the present embodiment can providefor clock calibration of input members at times other than immediatelyafter the input member enters the field.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 18 also includes an “entry into field”process. According to this process, when an input member is introducedto the RF field, it will initialize itself, transmit its functionalcapabilities, and synchronize its state with the base. This is importantto prevent unintended behavior from an input member operativelypositioned in the vicinity of the base in an unknown condition, andgenerating spurious input data.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, once clock calibration is completed,the input member may wait for a base request for communication withnewly powered input members 228. According to this embodiment, this baserequest may occur periodically to identify any input members that havenot completed an initiation cycle since powering up. Once the inputmember detects this base request, it may transmit to the base an EntryInto Field (EIF) report 230. The EIF report sent by the input device maycontain data specifying the input capabilities of the input member, aswell as the initial settings of any internal states, such as therotational state for dials, described above. The EIF report may be usedto provide detailed information to the base about the input member andits functions.

Once the base has processed the EIF report, it may transmit an uniqueidentifier for the input member 232. This unique identifier (ID) may bedynamically assigned. Depending on the circumstances, the base mayprovide different IDs to each of two identical input members, to allowthem to provide separate functionality. Alternately, the base may assigna different ID to the same input member during consecutive power upcycles. The flexibility of the dynamic ID can permit the base to assignand reassign unique identifiers to each of the input members as needed.The dynamic ID can also allow input members to be manufactured withoutthe requirement for individual input members needing an ID beforedelivery to a user. Of course, the present invention will also operatewith input members that contain fixed unique identifiers, or uniqueidentifiers assigned during the manufacturing process. The aboveinitialization process is merely representational of the capabilitiesfor clock calibration, input member state synchronization, and unique IDassignment. Those of ordinary skill in the art could substitute otherprocesses that could implement these capabilities.

FIG. 19 represents a flowchart that illustrates an embodiment of aprocess by which input members may deliver a data payload to a hostcomputer. This feature may, for example, allow input members to bedelivered to a user and have the input member provide a new softwarefunction to an existing application, without any other steps from theuser. This capability represents a dramatic advance over how softwarefeatures are presently delivered. For example, a user could have agraphic editing application already on his or her computer. The usercould obtain a dial designed to operate with this application. Tooperate the newly obtained dial, the user may merely place it inoperative proximity to the base. Using the data payload deliverycapability, the dial could transmit data such as scripts, plug-ins, orexecutable code through the base to the graphic editing application. Inessence, the newly introduced dial may “teach” additional features to anexisting application by delivering a data payload to the host computer.

FIG. 19 represents a flowchart that illustrates an embodiment of asimplified data payload delivery process. This embodiment may begin withthe user introducing and/or activating a new input member into thecommunication area of the base 234. Once detected by the base, the newinput member may transmit the status of its data payload 236. If theinput member has a data payload to deliver, it may be transferred fromthe input member memory to the base 238. From there, the data payloadmay be transferred to the host computer 240 and then processes at theappropriate application or destination 242. Once the data payload isdelivered, or if there is not data payload, the base may use the inputmember in a normal fashion 244. Depending on the need for the particularembodiment, the data payload may be delivered in various manners. Forexample, the data payload may be delivered each time the input member isintroduced or activated in the vicinity of the base. Alternately, thedata payload may be delivered once or a fixed number of times and thencleared from internal memory.

Of course, the above description provides a broad outline of thiscapability. The present invention can greatly simplify human/computerinteractions by allowing individual input members to deliver informationpayloads to the base and/or host computer. These information payloadscan include, among other things, executable code, scripts, plug-ins,stand-alone programs, and/or application features. Providing a means forinput members to expand the capability of the base and/or host computerthrough information payload delivery may eliminate the need for users touse CDs or floppy disks to install new software or additionalapplication features.

The advantages of the present invention become apparent when examiningthe drawbacks of known input devices. For example, video-editing controlpanels are frequently used to manipulate and edit digital video. Atypical video-editing control panel may contain a jog shuttle wheel fornavigating the video content and some assigned buttons to initiatevarious editing commands. However, the fixed layout of the inputmechanisms for a typical control panel invariably compromises the userexperience in exchange for manufacturing convenience.

A novice user, for example, may want only a few buttons and ajog-shuttle wheel to perform basic editing functions. An advanced usermay prefer more buttons as well as some sliders and an A/B fadermechanism. Furthermore, both the novice and advanced users may wish toposition or reposition their desired controls in a manner notanticipated by manufacturers of known input devices. This exampledemonstrates difficulties that can be encountered using known computerinput device technology to develop a single control panel that can meetthe needs of all users.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/524,011 to Scott M. Rix filed Mar.13, 2000, the entire contents of the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference, discloses a novel computer input device thatpermits an individual user to individually position and assign afunction to tactile mechanisms for customized computer input.

1. A configurable computer input device, comprising: a base operable togenerate and detect a radio frequency carrier signal; and a plurality ofindependently positionable input members each operatively positioned inthe vicinity of the base and individually operable to modulate thecarrier signal responsive to its identity and status.
 2. The computerinput device according to claim 1, wherein input members modulate thecarrier signal through inductive backscattering.
 3. The computer inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein at least one computer inputfunction is assignable to activation of at least one of the inputmembers.
 4. The computer input device according to claim 1, wherein atleast one of the input members is positionable in an infinite number ofpositions on the base.
 5. The computer input device according to claim1, wherein at least one of the input members comprises memory operableto store an input function assigned to activation of the input member.6. The computer input device according to claim 5, wherein the inputmember memory stores at least one of strings of characters, macrosequences, executable programs, scripts, application plug-ins, useridentity data, passwords, advertising information, electronic images,and a scan code that corresponds to an input function.
 7. The computerinput device according to claim 1, wherein the base comprises memoryoperable to store an input function assigned to activation of the inputmember.
 8. The computer input device according to claim 1, wherein aninput function assigned to activation of at least one of the inputmembers is stored in the host computer.
 9. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one of the input memberscomprises a coil, an RFID chip, and a switch circuit connecting the coiland the RFID chip.
 10. The computer input device according to claim 1,wherein at least one of the input members comprises an electromechanicalelement, a coil, and a microprocessor connected to the electromechanicalelement and the coil.
 11. The computer input device according to claim10, wherein electromechanical element comprises output members connectedto digital input pins of the microprocessor.
 12. The computer inputdevice according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the input memberscomprises an analog input member, a microprocessor and an analog todigital converter means.
 13. The computer input device according toclaim 1, wherein at least one of the input members comprises at leastone antenna operable to receive power and carry out base-to-input memberand input member-to-base communication.
 14. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 13, wherein at least one of the input memberscomprises a first antenna operable to receive power, a second antennaoperable to carry out base-to-input member communication and a thirdantenna operable to carry out input member-to-base communication. 15.The computer input device according to claim 1, wherein at least one ofthe input members comprises a tuned coil operative to receive power andcommunicate with the base.
 16. The computer input device according toclaim 15, wherein inductance and capacitance of a circuit comprising thecoil produces a naturally resonant circuit.
 17. The computer inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the input memberscomprises a tuning capacitor.
 18. (canceled)
 19. The computer inputdevice according to claim 18, wherein the base comprises a multipleobject, multiple-protocol anticollision algorithm.
 20. The computerinput device according to claim 1, wherein the base is operable toselectively interrogate the input members.
 21. (canceled)
 22. Thecomputer input device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of theinput members is operable to only transmit its status in response tointerrogation by the base.
 23. The computer input device according toclaim 1, further comprising: a wired or wireless connection forcommunication with a host computer.
 24. (canceled)
 25. The computerinput device according to claim 1, wherein a status of at least one ofthe input members is initialized upon being operatively positioned inthe vicinity of the base.
 26. The computer input device according toclaim 1, wherein the base comprises a cover on which the input membersare each independently positionable.
 27. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 26, wherein at least one of the input members isindependently positionable in an infinite number of locations on thecover.
 28. The computer input device according to claim 26, wherein thecover is removable.
 29. The computer input device according to claim 26,wherein at least one of the cover and the base comprises at least oneattachment element operable to removably secure the cover to the base.30. The computer input device according to claim 26, wherein at leastone of the input members is attached to the cover with a reusableadhesive.
 31. The computer input device according to claim 26, whereinat least one of the input members is independently removably attachableto the cover.
 32. The computer input device according to claim 26,further comprising: a template operable to indicate at least one ofpositions and functions for the input members.
 33. The computer inputdevice according to claim 32, wherein at lease one of the cover and thetemplate comprises an RFID circuit.
 34. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 32, wherein at least one of the base and the templateis operable to modulate the carrier signal.
 35. The computer inputdevice according to claim 26, wherein the cover comprises a templateoperable to indicate at least one of positions and functions for theinput members.
 36. The computer input device according to claim 1,wherein at least one of the input devices is independentlyrepositionable.
 37. The computer input device according to claim 1,wherein at least one of the input members is independently removablyattachable to the base.
 38. The computer input device according to claim1, wherein the base comprises at least one antenna operable to transmitand receive the carrier signal.
 39. The computer input device accordingto claim 1, wherein the base is arranged on a keyboard housing.
 40. Thecomputer input device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of theinput members is removably positionable in an infinite number oflocations on the base.
 41. The computer input device according to claim1, wherein the input members are selected from the group comprisingkeys, buttons, button pads, key pads, thumb pads, joysticks, sliders,dials, trackpads and jog/shuttle wheels.
 42. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one of the input members isinductively powered by the carrier signal.
 43. The computer input deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one the input members is poweredby a power source included in each input member.
 44. The computer inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein the base is operable to recordcomputer input functions to be assigned to activation of the inputmembers.
 45. The computer input device according to claim 1, wherein thebase is operable to launch a configuration program on a host computer.46. The computer input device according to claim 1, wherein the at leastone input members is independently positionable in a plurality ofdiscrete positions.
 47. The computer input device according to claim 1,wherein the base is operatively connectable to a host computer.
 48. Acomputer system, comprising: a host computer; an input device comprisinga base operable to generate and detect a radio frequency carrier signal,the base being operatively connected to a host computer and a pluralityof independently positionable input members each operatively positionedin the vicinity of the base and individually operable to modulate thecarrier signal responsive to its identity and status.
 49. A configurablecomputer input device, comprising: a base operable to generate anddetect a radio frequency carrier signal; and at least one independentlypositionable input member operatively positioned in the vicinity of thebase and individually operable to modulate the carrier signal responsiveto its identity and status.